Ryan's Pensil 10.2 Build Log

[skeeter99]

Those Pensil's really look fantastic! I love the beveled edges on the front, it really adds a very nice touch. I don't know if Dave has a version of the center that I just built for the 10.2 yet but maybe a similar version that's not shallow would be a good match? The Shallow Mark-Ken12 Centre I just built is a fantastic match with my SuperPensil12's. Just a thought

Scott

[CabinetMakerRyan]

According to Dave's website he has the Mar-Ken10.2 plans for sale. I'm waiting on a response from him on that. I am open to other drivers because of the calibration. A prime size like the Mar-Ken10 would be a perfect fit for my table.

I put a pillow behind the dipole center I'm using and re calibrated. Running the high pass at 120hz for better integration.

[skeeter99]

I'm a firm believer in keeping the same drivers for your front 3 in a HT type environment for better integration and panning. Even with the cabinets being different, by varying the stuffing in my Mark-Ken12 I was able to get a virtually seamless front stage. If I were you I would definitely make a center with another 10.2 with a box that matches the visuals/space requirements you have. Just my 2cents

Scott

[CabinetMakerRyan]

Scott,

Thanks for the advice I like the idea of using another 10.2 in the center and even the surrounds for that matter.

[skeeter99]

If budget allows the same drivers for the rear as well I would definitely recommend it. There's something magical when listening to a great soundtrack where your panning all around is completely seamless. It's definitely the way to go.

Scott

[buzzforb]

I am about to build the double floorstander and the MarKenT for the 10'2. My brother has a pair and I have a pair, so trying the double will be possible. He wants them but i am more interested in the MarKenT or TT.

[chuyler1]

Excellent job finishing those cabinets! I can't believe the mahogany transforms like that without any stain!

[CabinetMakerRyan]

It does transform nicely. One of the few that I really like natural. As a very absorbent wood it stains very well by the way. If you do stain it, make sure to use a dye based stain instead of a pigment based stain. The dye stains do not mask the wood and hide contrast. The dyes will not settle on the bottom of the container.

[CabinetMakerRyan]

Just got the plans for the Mar-Ken 10.2 from Dave he does really nice work on his plans. I should have enough Baltic birch to do the center channel. Not sure if I've got the veneer. I might need to go rummaging for small pieces in the shop. I'm hoping that with calibration I can push the Mar-kens down to 40hz otherwise I will be happy with 60hz high pass. This time I will need to breaking before I install the driver. It would years to put hundreds of hours on a center channel.

If it works out well I will do a pair for rears with a custom adjustable 2 axis mounting system made out of the same meterial.

Thanks for all the encouragement guys. I would not have tried so hard if I didn't know you were watching.

[skeeter99]

Awesome can't wait to see what your center looks like! What's your thinking for wanting to have your center play so low?

Scott